Chief operating officer jobs in London, greater london
Maudsley Charity funds work led by South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, research teams at King’s College London, and partners in the voluntary and community sector to help build a more equitable and effective mental health care system in south London. We share what we learn to inform and inspire change across the UK.
We are a grant-making charity focused on advancing and accelerating positive change in mental health care. Our aim is to ensure that everyone who experiences mental illness can access the care that’s right for them.
While our roots are firmly in south London, we seek to amplify the knowledge and evidence generated through our programmes to influence practice nationally. We are a small but growing team (21 staff) with bold ambitions.
The role
Maudsley Charity is entering a new chapter of growth and renewal. We are strengthening our governance, welcoming new trustees, and establishing a Finance, Audit and Development Committee to underpin our ambitions. We are evolving our operating model to ensure we remain agile and effective as we scale our impact.
Following a period of interim leadership in this role, we are now seeking a permanent Director of Finance and Operations who will play a pivotal role in shaping this next phase.
This is a role of considerable breadth and strategic influence. The Director of Finance and Operations will lead our financial strategy, oversee our investment approach, including social and impact investing and manage our property portfolio. The role will also explore innovative funding models and commercial opportunities, ensuring we have the resources and resilience to deliver our mission. Alongside this, it will lead core operational functions; HR, IT, Facilities and drive digital transformation to strengthen our infrastructure for the future.
How to apply
To make an application, please click on the apply now button, with the following prepared:
• Your CV (no more than three sides).
• A supporting statement (no more than two sides) that sets out why you think this role is the right move for you and how you meet the knowledge and experience criteria.
Timeline
· Closing date - Friday 23rd January 2026
· Preliminary interviews - w/c 2nd February 2026
· First stage panel interviews - Wednesday 25th and Thursday 26th February 2026
· Final panel interviews – w/c 9th March
Position: Customer Services and Central Administration Officer
Hours: Full time 35 hours per week
Contract: Permanent
Location: Office-based in London N4 with the flexibility to work remotely 1 day per week.
Salary: Starting from £26,384 per annum, plus excellent benefits
Salary Band and Job Family: Band 1, Charity
*You’ll start at our entry point salary of £26,384 per annum, increasing to £28,033 after 6 months service and satisfactory performance and to £29,682 after a further 6 months.
About us
We make sure people living with MS are at the centre of everything we do. And it’s this commitment that unites us across the UK.
Our strategy is based on what people affected by MS have told us is important to them. It gives us a clear and determined focus.
Our work is based on the hopes and aspirations of our MS community. Together we campaign at all levels, fund ground-breaking research and provide award winning support and information.
Our people are our greatest asset and the key to our success. We offer a vibrant, progressive working environment where you'll be able to make a difference.
About this job
The MS Society is a dynamic and customer-focused organization dedicated to delivering an exceptional service to our customers.
We are looking for a motivated and friendly Customer Services and Central Administration Officer to join our team and provide outstanding customer support.
As a Customer Services and Central Administration Officer, you’ll be the first point of contact for our customers, providing them with a professional and efficient service. You’ll handle inquiries, resolve issues, and ensure that every customer has a positive experience with contacting the MS Society. You’ll also be responsible for processing a wide range of different income types and supporting with the reconciliation process.
Closing date for applications: 9:00 on Friday 2nd January 2026
Interested?
PLEASE PRESS THE 'HOW TO APPLY' BUTTON FOR MORE INFORMATION.
Equal Opportunities
We particularly welcome applications from people with disabilities and or from ethnic minority backgrounds.
We’d be grateful if you downloaded and completed the equality and diversity monitoring form and submit it with your application.
Disability Confident Employer
We’re a Disability Confident Employer and we’re committed to promoting equality and diversity.
You can ask for reasonable adjustments as part of both our recruitment and new starter on-boarding processes.
If you need any help or adjustments to apply for this role, please contact us. You can also ask for the application materials to be sent to you in a different format. Such as for them to be sent to you by email or in a larger word format.
More about our employee benefits:
We have a wide range of employee benefits including (but not limited to):
Encouraging work life balance
- 38 days paid annual leave (including bank holidays), pro-rata for part-time
- More annual leave entitlement, based on length of employment
- Smart working options (with the opportunity to work remotely and find a smart working pattern that suits both you and us)
- Flexible working options
Caring for you and your family
- Generous sick pay entitlement
- More sick pay entitlement, based on length of employment
- Opportunity to buy and sell annual leave in each calendar year
- Free access to a GP virtually 24 hours a day/7 days a week allowing you unlimited advice, reassurance and where appropriate diagnosis
- Enhanced leave for new parents
- Free access to a confidential 24 hours a day/7 days a week helpline service for both you and your family with a specialist range of support and information
- Special leave options (such as up to 5 days paid leave for domestic or personal emergencies a year)
- 10 days paid disability leave a year, pro-rata for part-time
- 10 days paid carers’ leave a year, pro-rata for part-time
- Cycle to work scheme
- Death in service scheme
- New family-friendly benefits, including paid leave:
- In the event of miscarriage or still birth
- To support fertility treatments
- For antenatal appointments for both parents
Thinking about your finances
- Enhanced salary sacrifice pension scheme
- Discounted season ticket loan and interest-free emergency loans
- Give as you earn to support other charities of your choice before tax
- New employee portal including lifestyle savings vouchers and personal wellbeing
Enriching your life at work
- Personalised development plans with a wide range of training courses and opportunities to source additional training options with your line manager
- Yearly internal apprenticeship opportunities
- New, modern offices that embrace working together both in-person and remotely
- Various opportunities to influence how we internally operate (including surveys, and focus and committee groups)
- Active and supportive internal employee networking groups for collaboration and peer support
- 2 days paid leave a year for volunteering for MS Society activities during normal working hours (such as fundraising events, or campaigning in the local community)
- 2 days paid leave a year for volunteering with other charities during normal
Safeguarding
We’re committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of everyone who uses our services and we come into contact with.
This is regardless of Gender, Race, Disability, Sexual orientation, Religion or belief, Pregnancy, Gender reassignment.
We recognise our particular responsibility to make sure vulnerable adults and children are protected.
We have measures in place to protect everyone we come into contact with from abuse and maltreatment of all kinds.
Your right to work in the UK
You must have the right to work in the UK to work in paid employment with us. You’ll need to share documents showing you’re eligible to work in the UK if we offer you employment.
You can find the UK visas and permits granting you the right to work in the UK on the UK Government website. We currently don’t have a Sponsor Licence agreement with the Home Office and aren’t able to support you with your visa applications.
No agencies please.
To fund world-leading research, share the latest information and campaign for everyone's rights. Together we are a community. Together we can stop MS
The Vacancy
Islamic Relief Worldwide (IRW) is a faith-based humanitarian relief and development organisation working to save and transform the lives of some of the world’s most vulnerable people. Established in 1984, with an active presence in over 45 countries, we strive to make the world a better and fairer place for those affected by poverty, conflict and natural disasters. IRUK’s focus is strengthening effective funding, mobilising for change through advocacy and awareness-raising, and strengthening programme development and delivery. IRUK works with various partners and institutions, from governments, non-governmental organisations and local authorities to grassroots communities.
Islamic Relief UK (IRUK) is recruiting for the position of ‘Digital Product Specialist’ on a permanent, full-time basis, to be based from its Waterloo Office, London. The organisation is currently operating to a hybrid working model.
Job Purpose:
- Manage the digital assets of Islamic Relief UK, particularly the website, ensuring that it operates in an optimal manner.
- Manage the development, evolution and/or integration of digital assets, e.g. digital giving platforms and digital events management systems.
- Ensure all development projects have well considered user interfaces and provide an optimal user experience.
- Provide the Digital Marketing team support with technical SEO, email marketing, and tracking/reporting across key digital marketing platforms.
The successful candidate must have:
- Proven record of excellent people and interpersonal skills with strong communication skills at individual and group levels.
- Experience of managing web development projects
- Experience of working with internal clients and diverse teams
- Experience of delivering with a marketing budget and using resources effectively to successfully balance creative aspirations with limited financial and other resources
- An academic qualification at degree level or equivalent experience/qualification in a digital/developer related field
- A comprehensive knowledge of CMSs, preferably WordPress
- Working knowledge of PHP, HTML, CSS, SQL and JavaScript and version controlling with Git
- Experienced in interpreting data from Google Analytics, Google Search Console and other analytic platforms
- In-depth understanding of UX and UI in the context of web design
- Knowledge and understanding of implementing technical SEO
- Commercially aware, with good understanding of budget management
- Ability to communicate technical information and requirements to non-technical management and internal stakeholders
- Experienced in working from wireframes and written design briefs to build mobile responsive solutions
- An aptitude for managing short-term projects effectively
- An understanding of marketing trends and the charity market
For more information, please click on the Documents tab above to view the full Job Description.
If you are talented, reliable, service-minded, resilient and a highly motivated professional looking for a meaningful career, with a strong commitment to IRW’s mission and values of sincerity, excellence, compassion, social justice and custodianship, please apply by completing our online application form.
For more information on the excellent company benefits we offer our employees, please visit our website.
PLEASE NOTE: Interviews are expected to take place on an ongoing basis until a suitable appointment is made. Therefore, we may close the advert sooner than the advertised date.
Pre-employment Checks:
Any employment with Islamic Relief will be subject to the following checks:
- screening clearance
- proof of eligibility to live and work within the UK
- receipt of satisfactory references
Please note, for UK-based roles, we are only able to accept applications from candidates who are eligible to work in the UK. We are unable to progress applications which would require sponsorship.
Our values and commitment to safeguarding
IRW is committed to preventing any type of unwanted behaviour at work including sexual harassment, exploitation and abuse, lack of integrity and financial misconduct; and committed to promoting the welfare of children, young people, adults and beneficiaries with whom IRW engages. IRW expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment through our code of conduct. We place a high priority on ensuring that only those who share and demonstrate our values are recruited to work for us.
The post holder will undertake the appropriate level of training and is responsible for ensuring that they understand and work within the safeguarding policies of the organisation.
All offers of employment will be subject to satisfactory references and appropriate screening checks, which can include criminal records checks. IRW also participates in the Inter Agency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme.
In line with this Scheme, we will request information from job applicants’ previous employers about any findings of sexual exploitation, sexual abuse and/or sexual harassment during employment, or incidents under investigation when the applicant left employment.
By submitting an application, the job applicant confirms their understanding of these recruitment procedures.
Islamic Relief is an equal opportunities employer
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
This is an extraordinary opportunity to join Belong’s Senior Leadership Team as Director of Programmes, a pivotal role at the heart of our mission. You will lead the design, delivery, and impact of Belong’s programmes across England and Wales, ensuring they are strategic, inclusive, and evidence-based. Working closely with the CEO and senior colleagues, you will shape programme strategy, oversee complex portfolios, and drive systemic change that strengthens social cohesion nationwide.
As Director of Programmes, you will:
- Lead strategic development and delivery of Belong’s place-based programmes, ensuring alignment with our mission and values.
- Oversee programme design, implementation, evaluation, and learning to guarantee quality and measurable impact.
- Line manage a talented team of Programme Leads and Coordinators, fostering a culture of collaboration and empowerment.
- Apply systems thinking to understand the interconnected nature of community, policy, and service ecosystems.
- Build and maintain high-level partnerships with funders, commissioners, local authorities, and community organisations.
- Represent Belong at national forums, events, and networks, championing our work and influence.
- Identify and pursue new opportunities for programme development and funding, supporting organisational growth.
This is a senior leadership position that combines strategic vision with hands-on delivery. You will play a key role in shaping Belong’s future and ensuring our programmes make a lasting difference to communities across the UK.
About You
We are seeking a visionary and experienced leader with:
- Proven experience in leading complex programme portfolios and delivering impactful initiatives.
- Strong strategic thinking and planning abilities, with a track record of shaping programme strategy.
- Excellent leadership and line management skills, with the ability to inspire and develop teams.
- Experience managing diverse stakeholders, from senior decision-makers to community partners.
- Familiarity with systems change and participatory approaches.
- Understanding of social cohesion, integration, and related social policy issues.
- Strong communication and influencing skills, able to translate complex ideas into accessible messages.
- Highly organised, diplomatic, and politically astute, with experience in income generation and bid development.
Desirable: Experience in areas such as Prevent, PCVE, community tensions, hate crime, or tackling misinformation.
Personal qualities matter too: we’re looking for someone passionate about improving cohesion and integration in the UK, collaborative and inclusive in their leadership style, and committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Why Join Us?
At Belong, you’ll be part of a dynamic, values-driven team united by a shared commitment to creating a more inclusive and connected society. We offer:
- 30 days’ annual leave
- Hybrid working (typically 3 days in the office)
- Enhanced sick pay and family-friendly policies
- Opportunities for professional development and growth
Salary: £65,000–£70,000
Location: UK-wide (regular travel across England and Wales)
Contract: Permanent, Full-time
Closing Date: 12 January 2026
About Belong
Belong – The Cohesion and Integration Network is the UK’s leading not-for-profit organisation dedicated to building a more united and less divided society. We work with communities, local authorities, and national partners to strengthen trust, belonging, and resilience. Through innovative place-based programmes, research, policy influence, and thought leadership, we help create stronger, kinder, and more connected communities. Our growing membership spans local authorities, charities, civil society, and businesses, and we are proud to champion collaboration, diversity, and evidence-led approaches.
*Our office is based in Manchester and we offer hybrid working for those able to travel there. However, this role is open UK-wide and can be worked remotely, with regular travel across England and Wales required.*
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
This is an exciting role leading our committed policy team leading the fight to end child poverty in the UK. The development and implementation of a UK-wide cross-government child poverty strategy means this is a great time to join CPAG as we look to influence policy makers to adopt our evidence-based policy solutions to child poverty.
We are looking for someone to take a lead role in developing evidence-based policy positions to support CPAG’s influencing and campaigns work. You will have knowledge of political processes and how external organisations can effect change. You will have a track record of producing high quality research and analysis, including policy briefings, on social policy issues. You will have experience of managing a small team and working collaboratively to identify policy issues and develop solutions with colleagues across the organisation, as well as externally.
The postholder will be working in a fast moving, high profile and complex policy environment and will need to balance short term priorities with long term objectives. Current priorities include influencing the implementation of the forthcoming child poverty strategy, gathering and sharing analysis and expertise with the DWP as part of their review of universal credit, and monitoring the development of forthcoming changes to disability benefits.
We welcome applications from individuals with the skills and experience outlined and we can be flexible about working arrangements. We operate a hybrid working system and would be happy to discuss any flexibilities required. CPAG is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion which you can read more about in the job pack.
We welcome applications on a secondment basis.
For more information about this post and to apply download the Head of Policy job pack.
If you have questions or need specific arrangements or reasonable adjustments to take part in the selection process, please contact us.
Closing date for applications: Sunday 4th January 2026 (midnight)
Interviews will take place: Tuesday 13th January 2026
Child Poverty Action Group works to prevent and end child poverty – for good.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are looking for an energetic, motivated self-starter keen to take on new challenge, and to adapt their varied skills to join us and support our community. This role will have you tackling different things every day. You will ensure that our office runs smoothly, and that key corporate and HR processes and procedures comply with law and with our policies. Working with everyone, you’ll actively enjoy the collegiate atmosphere which we value as a team.
You will be curious, courageous, able to quickly understand our work, (and to ask for help when you don’t) and you’ll have the self-belief and capacity to develop trusting relationships with stakeholders at every level. You will have an appetite for detail, and a focus on standards.
See the attached Job Description for more details.
How to Apply
We will be assessing applications on a rolling basis.
- Please send us an up-to-date CV including a daytime phone and email contact, and a brief covering email of no more than 250 words - see the job description attached for details on which email address to sue.
- The closing date and time for applications is 9am, 8th January 2026.
We reserve the right to close applications prior to the closing date if we receive elevated levels of interest and/or secure a successful applicant for the role.
We want equal access to challenging learning and adventure in the wilderness as an unbeatable preparation for adult life.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Closing Date: 11 January 2026
Ref 7228
Save the Children UK is looking for an individual with extensive senior legal, governance and risk leadership experience to join us as our General Counsel and Company Secretary. This is an exciting opportunity to work closely with our Board of Trustees, Chief Executive and leaders across SCUK, as well as partners across the global Save the Children Movement, to help drive impact for children.
About Us
Save the Children UK believes every child deserves a future. In the UK and around the world, we work every day to give children a healthy start in life, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm. When crisis strikes, and children are most vulnerable, we are always among the first to respond and the last to leave. We ensure children's unique needs are met and their voices are heard. We deliver lasting results for millions of children, including those hardest to reach.
About the role
As General Counsel and Company Secretary, you will play a pivotal role in guiding decisions that align with our mission and values, ensuring that SCUK operates with integrity, transparency and strong governance. You will lead our Legal, Enterprise Risk and Company Secretariat functions, oversee internal audit performance, and act as a trusted adviser to the CEO, Executive Leadership Team and Board. You will integrate legal, governance and risk-thinking into organisational decision-making, enabling innovation and impact while ensuring compliance and safeguarding the organisation's reputation and obligations.
In this role, you will:
• Provide strategic legal, regulatory and governance advice to the Board, CEO and senior leaders, ensuring decisions are informed, risk-aware and aligned with our organisational priorities.
• Lead and motivate the Legal, Enterprise Risk and Company Secretariat teams, setting strategic direction and fostering a high-performing, inclusive, values- and impact-driven culture.
• Serve as Company Secretary, ensuring robust governance, effective Board and Committee management, and compliance with company law, Charity Commission requirements and the Charity Governance Code.
• Oversee SCUK's enterprise risk management and internal audit functions, acting as Executive Sponsor for Global Assurance and ensuring effective risk, audit and compliance frameworks are in place.
• Support organisational transformation and innovation, including new financial models, subsidiaries, and partnerships, while ensuring SCUK remains compliant, ethical and child-rights focused.
About you
You'll be an English qualified lawyer with broad experience across a range of areas, including some or all of charity and fundraising laws, corporate governance, commercial contracts, intellectual property, IT and corporate law.
Ideally, you'll bring experience in an in-house legal role (including in a charity context) with some experience of working in international contexts.
To be successful, it is important that you have:
• Senior experience in a challenging role, including managing a team and working with senior executives and trustees.
• Good understanding of the context in which Save the Children works. Experience and understanding of human rights law, child-rights based law and/or laws relating to sexual offences is desirable but not essential.
• Strong strategic, analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to navigate complexity, influence at senior levels and provide clear, solution-focused advice.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to explain complex legal issues in accessible ways and negotiate effectively.
• A high level of integrity, ethical judgement and commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion, and to fostering a culture of accountability and learning.
• Commitment to Save the Children's vision, mission and values.
What we offer you:
Working for a charity provides one of the best benefits there is – a sense of purpose and reward for helping others. However, we understand the importance of giving back to our employees to ensure a happy and healthy working environment and work/life balance.
• We focus on flexibility, inclusion, collaboration, health and wellbeing both in and outside of work.
• We provide a wide range of benefits which will reward your hard work, motivate you, and inspire you to work to improve the lives of children every day.
Location & Ways of Working:
SCUK offers ‘remote first' hybrid and flexible work arrangements to enable impact towards our strategic objectives and to support the wellbeing of our talented people.
This role involves close direct work with the Board, CEO, senior leaders, staff, and partners. Often fast-paced and handling sensitive issues and relationships, the nature of this role means that you are likely to need to be in our Farringdon office for at least two days most weeks. Some out-of-hours work may be required.
Please note: travel costs to your contracted office will be at your own expense.
Flexible Working - We are happy to discuss flexible working options at interview.
Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion:
Save the Children UK believes in a world that is fair, inclusive and equitable where all children have the opportunity to change their world. We apply this to our workforce and we are committed to developing and supporting a diverse, equitable, and inclusive organisation where all employees have a sense of belonging and feel that they can be "Free to Be Me". We are not looking for just one type of person - we want to recruit people who can add fresh perspectives, innovative ideas or challenge that disrupts the risk of group think.
We are especially interested in people whose childhood experiences - of life on a low income, of migration, of being in a racialised community, of the care system, of being LGBT+ or in an LGBT+ family or living with (or with someone with) a disability - help us to see things we might otherwise miss. Whatever your story is we want to hear it because we know that different voices, ideas, perspectives and knowledge, working together will enable us to better the lives of children around the world. This is the reason why we are all here.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Director of Communications – EMMS International (Remote, Scotland-based)
EMMS International is creating a new Director of Communications role following an organisational review, separating fundraising and communications into two Director posts. Reporting to and working closely with the CEO, the Director of Communications will lead all internal and external communications, raise the charity’s profile and influence, and provide strong strategic support to income-generating functions, especially fundraising. You will develop and deliver a multi-layered communications and external affairs strategy, lead a small Communications Team (including a new Head of Communications), and play a key role on the Executive Leadership Team.
Key responsibilities include:
-
Designing and implementing an organisational communications and external affairs strategy
-
Leading EMMS’ rebrand in partnership with an external agency
-
Growing and engaging core and new audiences across multiple channels
-
Supporting fundraising colleagues with compelling campaigns
-
Managing a small team, setting objectives/KPIs and overseeing performance and development
-
Budget planning and financial oversight for the Communications function
-
Representing EMMS at senior level, including Board meetings and sector bodies such as SIDA
What they’re looking for:
An experienced communications leader with a strong track record in strategic comms, audience growth, media engagement and campaign delivery. You’ll bring creative thinking, excellent written and verbal skills, experience managing and developing teams, and confidence operating at both strategic and hands-on levels. Familiarity with the Scottish charity, political and social landscape is essential, as is the ability to communicate effectively with both Christian and secular audiences in line with EMMS’ faith-based origins and healthcare mission. Degree-level education or equivalent professional experience is required.
Terms and benefits:
-
Salary: £63,313 – £70,347 (depending on experience), with annual inflationary rise
-
Remote role with monthly meetings in central Edinburgh (more frequent in first three months)
-
25–30 days annual leave depending on length of service + 10 public holidays
-
8% employer pension contribution (with salary sacrifice)
-
Salary sacrifice scheme for electric vehicle lease
-
Flexible working, travel expenses to office, access to Edinburgh office, some international travel
-
Life assurance (three times annual salary) and Aviva Digi-Care app
Application:
Apply by CV and covering letter (each up to 2 pages) by Monday 12 January 2026. Interviews will be held in Edinburgh, with two stages. You must live in Scotland and have the right to work in the UK.
This essential role will oversee the coordination, governance, and planning of the Thames Catchment Community Eels Project (TCCEP) Development Phase. The Programme Manager will supervise the programme's daily operations, manage partner input into key workstreams (capital design, education, citizen science, inclusion), and ensure that timelines, budgets, and deliverables meet The Heritage Fund expectations. The role involves direct responsibility for preparing the Delivery Phase funding application and ensuring that the Development Phase creates a strong legacy platform for long term impact. This includes coordinating evaluation planning, risk registers, governance frameworks, and a sustainable funding strategy. The role requires strong leadership, strategic thinking, and the ability to facilitate collaboration among multiple partners across diverse catchments and disciplines.
TCCEP is a collaborative, catchment-scale initiative that supports the recovery of the critically endangered European eel by removing migration barriers, restoring river habitats, and reconnecting communities with their local water environments. The project builds on the successful pilot project of the same name.
You will be working closely with project partners including Rivers Trusts, a Wildlife Trust, Zoological Society of London and others.
The role is fixed term for one year, though we would look to extend the role, subject to alternative funding being available to cover the period between the end of the Development Phase and commencement of the Delivery Phase (3-5 months).Standard working week is 37.5 hours, with flexible working arrangements considered. The role will require working from home but will entail travel to meetings across the Thames Basin, and working outdoors in varying conditions.
The Programme Manager will be responsible for: Oversight of programme development, partner coordination, timeline management, and funding bid preparation
FTE: 1.0 • Contract Type: Fixed term (12 months) • Start Date: February - March 2026 (subject to The National Lottery Heritage Fund Permission to Start) • Salary Range: £40,000 - £45,000, depending on experience • Location: Home-based with regular travel to London and Thames Basin partner locations • Hours of Work: 37.5 hours per week, with occasional evening or weekend commitments • Annual Leave: 25 days per year plus public holidays • Probation Period: 3 months, during which annual leave is by agreement only • Pension: TRT operates a contributory pension scheme; details available on request.
Thames Rivers Trust (TRT) is a catchment-based environmental charity focused on enhancing river health and resilience throughout the Thames Basin. As a convening organisation, TRT collaborates with local delivery partners, statutory agencies, and funders to implement nature based solutions, support environmental data infrastructure, and improve community access to blue spaces. TRT coordinates the Thames Catchment Community Eels Project (TCCEP), building on a tradition of multi-partner catchment initiatives to achieve significant environmental and social benefits. The Thames Catchment Community Eels Project (TCCEP) is a £3 million flagship programme delivered by Thames Rivers Trust in partnership with seven NGOs and catchment groups. The Development Phase, supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, runs from January 2026 to April 2027 and lays the groundwork for a three-year Delivery Phase (2028–2030) across six sub-catchments. This builds on the successful Phase 1 pilot funded through The Green Recovery Challenge Fund (2020–2022).
Project Summary: The Thames Catchment Community Eels Project (TCCEP) is a collaborative, catchment-scale initiative that supports the recovery of the critically endangered European eel by removing migration barriers, restoring river habitats, and reconnecting communities with their local water environments. The project builds on the success of a pilot phase funded through the Green Recovery Challenge Fund (2020–2022), which trained over 200 volunteers, surveyed more than 450 barriers, and helped catalyse collaborative action across the Thames Basin. During this Development Phase (2026), partners will work together to finalise the programme design for a three-year Delivery Phase (2027–2030). This includes site-level feasibility studies, co-designed community engagement, capital project planning, evaluation framework development, and a final funding application for the Delivery Phase. Alongside habitat restoration, the programme also emphasises education, equity, climate resilience, and long-term legacy, using the iconic eel as a flagship species to inspire action and foster connection.
Key Responsibilities • Programme Management and Delivery • Lead day-to-day coordination of all Development Phase activities across partner organisations. You will be supported by a team including a Learning & Engagement Officer, Finance & Admin Officer and four external consultants (activity, conservation, interpretation, evaluation), alongside the TRT CEO and key staff from the delivery partners • Manage and update the programme timeline, risk register, and delivery plan • Oversee preparation and submission of the Delivery Phase application to The National Lottery Heritage Fund • Track milestones and ensure high-quality deliverables across capital planning, education, evaluation, and engagement workstreams • Stakeholder Engagement and Coordination • Convene and chair monthly partner meetings and quarterly Programme Board meetings • Act as the central contact for The Heritage Fund, Environment Agency, and strategic stakeholders • Facilitate input from delivery partners, ensuring alignment with shared priorities and timelines • Communications and Reporting • Support production of communication materials including briefings, reports, and evaluation summaries • Collate and submit regular updates to The Heritage Fund • Ensure clear and effective internal communications among partners • Legacy and Strategy • Lead development of the project legacy strategy and post-2030 sustainability plans Coordinate funding strategy work with TRT’s Fundraising Officer • Embed climate resilience, equity, and inclusion principles across project planning Person Specification Essential • Proven track record of managing complex, multi-partner programmes • Strong organisational, planning, and project management skills • Excellent written and verbal communication skills • Experience with funder reporting and application development (preferably The Heritage Fund or equivalent) • Ability to manage timelines, budgets, and risk registers with minimal supervision • Strategic thinker with a collaborative working style Desirable • Knowledge of river restoration, catchment management, or eel ecology • Experience with The National Lottery Heritage Fund or similar funders is desirable • Familiarity with Thames catchment geography and delivery networks • Experience using collaborative tools and evaluation frameworks in multi-stakeholder programmes • Understanding of equity and inclusion in environmental programme design Additional Requirements • Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle for site visits and meetings • Ability to work occasional evenings or weekends • Willingness to travel throughout the Thames Basin and London region.
Application Process To apply, please send a CV (no more than 2 pages) and a one-page covering letter detailing your interest and suitability for the role.
Deadline: 11.59pm Friday 16th January 2026 Interviews: 27th – 30th January 2026.
To apply, please send:
• A CV (no more than 2 pages)
• A one-page covering letter detailing your interest and suitability for the role
Deadline: 11.59pm Friday 16th January 2026
Interviews: 27th – 30th January 2026
If you would like to discuss the role, please contact: info @ thamesriverstrust . org . uk
To bring together organisations across the Thames River Basin, and foster collaborative working to benefit the environment, wildlife and communities.
The role
We are looking for a passionate, driven and creative comms professional or marketer to join our busy team. Someone who thrives in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment, who can take on projects and drive campaigns across multiple touchpoints, managing them from planning through to analysis, optimising throughout. You will be both creative and data proficient, eager to demonstrate impact.
This is a relatively new team that is shaping process and building a brand - a great opportunity to grow.
Ranked 3rd startup hub in the UK by the FT, The Royal Academy of Engineering Enterprise Hub supports talented entrepreneurs and decision makers to transform breakthrough engineering innovations into disruptive spinouts, startups and scaleups.
The aim of this role is to increase awareness of and engagement with the Enterprise Directorate’s activities, with a particular focus on the Academy’s regional Hub portfolio, which includes programme and ecosystem engagement.
You will be required to develop marketing plans and materials, tailor outreach to regional audiences, and identify and amplify stories and case studies from the Academy’s regional hubs in partnership with the wider communications and engagement directorate.
Our location
Our light, spacious head office is based in a fantastic location in central London with views over St James’s Park and close to the West End. We operate hybrid, flexible working practices with a baseline for office-based working of a mandatory weekly team day plus further days each week as required for the role and the Academy.
Who are we?
Engineering matters. It shapes our everyday lives, from our ability to turn the lights on, have a hot shower and commute into work, to the mobile phones we rely on to keep connected. It also plays a vital role in addressing some of the biggest challenges facing society today, from climate change, to global health pandemics and cyber threats.
The Royal Academy of Engineering is a charity that harnesses the power of engineering to build a sustainable society and an inclusive economy that works for everyone. In collaboration with our Fellows and partners, we’re growing talent and developing skills for the future, driving innovation, and building global partnerships, and influencing policy and engaging the public. Together we’re working to tackle the greatest challenges of our age.
With a diverse workforce and an inclusive and supportive culture, we look to attract candidates from wide and different backgrounds who have a passion for the role engineering plays in society. Our aim is to make the Academy the best place to work for the staff we have and those we seek to attract.
Why work for us?
We’re looking for people who are driven to make the world a better place. If you’re passionate about what you do and want to work collaboratively with talented colleagues to make change happen now and for future generations, we want you to get in touch.
This is the perfect time to join us. We have a dynamic, visionary CEO, a strong leadership team and an ambitious and exciting strategy. The value we bring as experts in our field and change agents is highly recognised and makes the Academy a motivating place to be. Our work today builds on a long, proud history with a focused and ambitious future which we’d love you to be part of.
We are looking for talented people who want to make a difference, to join our team – is this you? For more information and to apply, please visit our careers page.
Closing date: 5 January 2026.
Interview date: w/c 12 January 2026.
The Academy is committed to making reasonable adjustments to remove barriers that hinder applicants from applying or staff from working effectively and comfortably.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Join Emmaus Hertfordshire and use your finance skills to help transform lives and support people out of homelessness. As our Finance Co-ordinator, you'll bring accuracy, heart and organisation to a mission-driven charity making a real local impact.
Emmaus Hertfordshire is a charity supporting people who have experienced homelessness by providing stable homes, meaningful work, and skills development. Through its social enterprises, the organisation helps individuals rebuild their confidence and independence while contributing to a vibrant, supportive community.
Overall Purpose of the Role
The Finance Coordinator plays a key role in ensuring that Emmaus Hertfordshire maintains accurate, timely and compliant financial information in support of its charitable and social enterprise activities.
You will work closely with the Operations & Finance Manager, Trustees, Chief Executive, staff, companions, and external partners to provide clear financial reporting, strong financial controls, and expert guidance that supports good decision-making across the organisation.
As a proactive member of the Management Team, you will also contribute to financial policy development and continuous improvement of systems and processes, working within the Emmaus values, ethos and principles.
Key Responsibilities
1. Financial Controls
- Maintain effective financial control over all revenue, expenditure, and cash handling across the community.
- Prepare spreadsheets for monthly payroll and pension contributions.
- Support the Finance Manager, Chief Executive and Treasurer in preparing, setting and creating the annual budget.
- Maintain companion rent accounts, Housing benefit and Gift Aid applications.
- Lead the year-end process and liaise with external auditors to ensure an efficient and compliant audit.
2. Financial Reporting
- Produce accurate and timely financial information, including providing information to support monthly management accounts and forecast reports.
- Support the preparation of financial reports for the Board, Committees and senior leadership as required.
3. Financial Analysis
- Undertake financial analysis of business development and new income-generation opportunities to help minimise financial risk.
- Provide analysis and insight to support decision-making across social enterprise operations and to maximise trading income.
4. Additional Duties
- Contribute to the development and implementation of strategic and business plans.
- Attend and actively participate in staff, companion, Trustee and Board meetings where required.
- Review internal controls and identify opportunities for improving financial processes.
- Develop procedure manuals and promote best practice within the finance function.
- Work flexibly as part of the leadership team to meet the wider needs of the charity.
- Undertake any other financial duties required by the Finance Manager and Chief Executive.
Key Tasks
Daily / Weekly
- Manage day-to-day accounting using QuickBooks. (Experience with Zero accounting software would be advantageous)
- Maintain accurate accounting records and financial ledgers.
- Reconcile financial accounts and manage spreadsheets.
- Oversee credit control.
- Administer online banking, cheque handling and payment processing.
- Process invoices, expense claims and payment requests.
- Verify financial calculations in QuickBooks.
- Carry out bank reconciliations and cash management.
- Manage petty cash.
- Manage Companion Allowances.
- Provide ad hoc reports and information to the Finance Manager and Chief Executive.
Monthly
- Prepare and submit salary calculator spreadsheet for Payroll and submit HMRC returns. Manage PAYE payments.
- Manage companion rent accounts and housing benefit records.
- Prepare VAT returns.
- Work with the external accountants to produce monthly P&L and balance sheet reports.
- Complete gift Aid submissions.
- Support our external accountants in preparing documentation for Month End accounts
Annually
- Support the preparation of annual statutory accounts.
- Liaise with external advisers on statutory financial information.
- Assist the Finance Manager, Chief Exec and Trustees with annual budget setting.
Person Specification
Essential Experience
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in financial reporting, planning, budgeting, and analysis.
- Experience using QuickBooks or similar accounting software.
- Ability to work both independently and within a diverse team.
- Experience developing and implementing financial systems and processes.
- Proficiency in IT, including Microsoft Office applications.
Desirable Experience
- Experience in the voluntary/charity sector or in working with a Board of Trustees.
- Experience working with vulnerable adults or those with complex needs.
- Project management experience.
Education / Professional Certification
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Business, or related field.
- Desirable: Additional finance-related training or professional development.
Skills
- Strong financial and analytical skills, with proven expertise in financial reporting.
- Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
- Strong understanding of business principles and practices.
- Excellent interpersonal, communication and motivational skills.
- Discreet, trustworthy and reliable.
- Effective time-management and organisational skills.
- Ability to work methodically, independently and to deadlines.
- Strong problem-solving and prioritisation skills.
- Competent IT user (Word, Excel, email, internet).
Knowledge and Commitment
- Commitment to confidentiality, data protection and professional boundaries.
- Understanding and embodiment of the Emmaus ethos and principles.
- Desirable: Awareness of issues around homelessness and lived experience.
- Desirable: HR knowledge or experience.
Personal Characteristics
- Belief in the potential of every individual and the importance of community.
- A positive team player with the ability to lead, collaborate and delegate.
- Empathetic and supportive of people from diverse backgrounds.
- Self-aware, self-motivated and calm under pressure.
- Commitment to environmental sustainability and social development.
- Strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
- Welcoming, non-judgmental and respectful towards companions, staff and volunteers.
General Information
Emmaus St Albans operates its retail six days a week (Monday–Saturday). The Finance Co-Ordinators working hours will be agreed with the line manager, and flexibility is essential.
All roles at Emmaus Hertfordshire involve working with vulnerable people and therefore require strict adherence to professional boundaries and confidentiality. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check.
Staff must uphold the reputation of Emmaus Hertfordshire by following all policies and maintaining positive relationships with staff, volunteers, companions and Trustees.
You are also expected to engage to some degree with the wider Emmaus movement at local, regional, national and international levels.
We expect all employees to work in an environmentally aware manner, applying value-for-money principles in purchasing decisions.
Volunteers are a vital part of the Emmaus mission, and all staff are expected to support and encourage volunteer involvement.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The Opportunity:
As Operations and Impact Manager, you will provide the operational stability and strategic insight that enables our team to fight for equality for young migrants. By ensuring strong systems, financial health, and data-driven impact evaluation, you will help us deliver campaigns, advocacy, and support that change lives. Your work will empower We Belong to grow sustainably, remain accountable, and amplify the voices of young migrants across the UK.
Key Responsibilities:
·Lead organisational systems and operations to ensure smooth, efficient processes across finance, compliance, and team workflows.
·Drive impact and learning frameworks, embedding data-driven insights into strategy and reporting.
·Manage cross-team projects and fundraising pipelines, supporting timely delivery of proposals and reports.
·Support governance and strategic planning, preparing board papers and ensuring compliance.
·Line manage communications, ensuring campaigns and content reflect We Belong’s mission and values.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Who we’re looking for
We’re looking for an exceptional Director of Fundraising and Communication who will lead our fundraising and communications with vision and purpose, helping us grow our reach, deepen our impact and amplify our voice. You’ll be joining a people-centred, mission-driven team, united by a shared commitment to making a meaningful difference. At a time when vulnerable young people face increasing challenges, our work has never been more urgent. If you’re motivated by impact and driven by purpose, this is a good opportunity to contribute to lasting change.
You will be stepping into a well-established and highly effective organisation, but one that remains energised by innovation and continuous improvement. We actively welcome fresh thinking and new approaches that help us evolve and enhance our work.
What will you do?
This is a pivotal moment to join JET as we build on fourteen years of impact and enter a new chapter in our journey. We have ambitious plans to expand our reach and influence, and we’re seeking someone who can help us strengthen our funding base and sharpen our message.
Reporting directly to the CEO, you will lead and develop our fundraising team, shaping a cross-stream strategy and an integrated communications plan. You’ll be responsible for setting the strategic direction for fundraising, communications and events across the organisation. By doing so you will raise JET’s national profile, grow our supporter base and significantly increase income to support programme expansion.
You’ll bring strong experience across multiple fundraising streams, with a proven track record of securing significant multi-year funding and building lasting relationships with funders—both individuals and organisations. Alongside leading our fundraising efforts, you’ll take ownership of our brand, ensuring clarity and consistency in our messaging, helping partners tell our story, and securing positive media coverage.
You’ll lead the development of campaigns, fundraising and marketing activities, and digital engagement that not only enhance our national profile but also drive supporter engagement and income growth.
This is a home-based role, with travel required to and within the regions where we operate, including attendance at key events.
About you
You will provide strategic leadership across fundraising, communications, marketing and events. Your work will be closely aligned with JET’s five-year strategy, enabling continued growth in funding and programme delivery.
You’ll bring a wealth of experience in leading fundraising and communications at a strategic level, with a strong understanding of the sector and a track record of securing and sustaining major gifts and partnerships. You’ll be adept at managing integrated campaigns across multiple channels and growing income through sustainable funding models.
Your leadership style will be collaborative and empowering, with the ability to build high-performing teams and foster a culture of accountability and innovation. You’ll be a confident communicator, able to inspire and influence, with excellent relationship-building skills and a strategic mindset.
Above all, you’ll be passionate about JET’s mission to empower young people facing adversity. You’ll be a credible ambassador, committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and driven by the desire to make a meaningful difference.
Across the JET team we cultivate a culture of inclusion that respects individual strengths, views, and experiences. We believe that our differences enable us to be a better team – one that makes better decisions, drives innovation, and delivers better outcomes for our young people. We welcome applicants whatever your background and whatever your stage in life, so if you are returning to the workforce after a period away, or even seeking a change of pace, please get in touch.
About the Jon Egging Trust (JET)
At JET, we support vulnerable young people to get back on track and realise their potential; more than 45,000 young people right across the UK to date, and there’s so much more we can do. We’re an organisation that really values its people and we’re immensely proud that our team culture is based on caring and raising each other up.
Our benefits package includes:
-
Flexible working
-
Enhanced annual leave
-
Homeworking allowance
-
Occupational pension scheme
-
Occupational sickness scheme
-
Special paid leave provision
-
Enhanced family leave
Download the Candidate Information Pack
Read our Applicant Privacy Notice
Child and adult at risk protection policy statement
The Jon Egging Trust is committed to providing a safe and positive environment for everyone involved in its services and activities. The Trust takes its extended moral and legal duty of care very seriously in relation to children, young people, staff and volunteers. We seek to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all children and to protect them from harm or abuse when they engage in any of our activities. JET expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment. The suitability of all prospective employees or volunteers will be assessed during the recruitment process in line with this commitment.
To apply
Please complete our online application form.
Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis. The advert will close on Friday 16 January 2026 at [23:30] but may close earlier if a suitable candidate is found, so we encourage early applications.
Provisional Interview Process
Stage 1
-
First interview: Online interview
Stage 2
-
Online Workshop and fireside chat
-
Face-to-face interview with presentation in London
Questions?
Contact us through our website.
Please note:
Due to our anonymised recruitment process, if your application is not shortlisted, we are unable to provide personalised feedback.
To become an employee at JET, you must be able to provide evidence of your right to work in the UK and a satisfactory DBS check – enhanced with children's barred is required for this role.
As part of our recruitment process, we want to make clear that we are not able to offer visa sponsorship for this position.
Please note that the interview process outlined above is provisional and may be subject to change.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Impact and Learning Consultant (seven-month fixed-term contract, maternity cover)
Please refer to the attached Terms of Reference for full details, including application process.
Summary
- Location: London, required to work at least four days a week in our office near Victoria station. Applicant must have the legal right to work in the UK.
- Hours: Full time (40 hours per week).
- Period of contract: 1st March to 30th September 2026.
- Fee: Competitive, in line with the UK market.
- Application deadline: Monday 12th January 2026, 9am UK time.
About us
Vitol has a long history of charitable giving, making its first charitable grant in 2002. The Vitol Foundation was established in 2006, registered in Switzerland and operating independently from Vitol’s business interests. Since then, the Vitol Foundation has funded over 2,000 projects in more than 120 countries around the world.
The Vitol Foundation aims to make a difference in the lives of people around the world trapped in poverty. We are passionate about supporting organisations and programmes that can take children and their families in the poorest of countries across the world out of the vicious cycle of multi-dimensional poverty.
Our work is focused on five core areas: education, health, humanitarian, water sanitation and hygiene, and local giving through Vitol’s offices worldwide.
By providing different types of financing to non-governmental organisations and social enterprises, we aim to:
- Fund transformational, efficient, sustainable, scalable and replicable investments to support and strengthen government, private sector and community systems to provide sustainable health, water, sanitation and hygiene, education and employment opportunities.
- Address the systemic issues that make humanitarian crises more acute, by funding resilience and preparation in addition to recovery.
- Share models of evidence-based best practice that can be scaled by government, private sector and/or communities.
- Act responsibly with diverse partners with sensitivity to their circumstances and cultural contexts.
- Increase engagement and leverage the knowledge base of the Vitol Group worldwide.
About the role
The Impact and Learning Consultant will play a central role in advancing how the Vitol Foundation understands, measures and deepens its impact. They will build on existing frameworks, tools and processes developed by our Head of Impact, Learning and Strategy who is due to go on maternity leave, as well as bring their own expertise to further strengthen our approach to impact and learning, embedding it into our day-to-day decisions. As our lead expert in this area, the Consultant will ensure that our strategy and grantmaking are guided by emerging data and evidence, and support continuous learning across all our work.
The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in the field of measurement and evaluation, combining strategic leadership experience with strong hands-on technical skills to support Foundation colleagues and nonprofit partners. They will have experience with a wide range of quantitative and qualitative research methods and working in global settings, especially to support local partners operating in low-resource and/or emergency environments. This role requires someone with excellent communication skills, translating complex findings into clear, actionable insights tailored to different audiences, including Vitol Foundation colleagues, our board and non-technical external stakeholders.
Above all, the candidate must demonstrate a strong commitment to the vision, mission and values of the Vitol Foundation and improving people’s lives. They will report directly to our CEO and be part of a small but enthusiastic team of people committed to making a difference. The position is based at the Foundation’s office in London, United Kingdom.
Key responsibilities
Impact measurement and reporting
- Continue rollout of the foundation‑level impact framework across our grant portfolio, making ongoing adjustments and clarifications as it’s being road-tested with a growing number of grantees.
- Design and refine grant‑level impact measures. Develop impact indicators for new grants and review existing ones, working closely with programme managers and partners to ensure alignment with project goals, partner capacity and the foundation‑level impact framework.
- Review and strengthen data quality of incoming partner reports to ensure that progress is meaningfully captured through quantitative and qualitative indicators. Check for clarity, completeness, consistency and data quality, and provide feedback or make revisions as needed.
- Support uptake and adjustments to our impact dashboards in Salesforce to ensure clarity and usefulness for Foundation colleagues. Work with the Operations Manager and external developers to implement changes where needed.
Learning and strategy implementation
- Regularly synthesise and share lessons learned from across our grant portfolio as well as from the wider international development sector. Highlight emerging data, evidence and findings, and their implications for the Foundation’s strategy and grants.
- Conduct rapid evidence reviews to inform sector‑level strategies and individual grants as they are developed or revised. Work closely with programme leads and partners to ensure emerging evidence is reflected in design and implementation, and to identify ways to build credible evidence to strengthen the impact of our grants.
- Serve as a technical expert for externally-led evaluations of our grants, including reviewing research protocols, data collection tools, analysis plans, and consent and safeguarding processes. Note: evaluations will be commissioned by external parties, this role will not manage evaluation contracts or teams.
Internal and external communications
- Draw out insights from impact data, other programme documents and external sources to inform management and board reporting, including regular tracking of portfolio‑level outcomes, key trends and lessons learned.
- Work with the Head of Communications to draft content for internal and external audiences, using relevant data and statistics and creating compelling visualisations that reinforce key messages.
Qualifications
Essential
- Educational background: Advanced degree in a relevant field (for example, public policy, global development, business administration).
- Professional experience: 10+ years of progressive experience in impact measurement, strategic learning, or programme evaluation in philanthropy, non-profits or social impact sectors.
- Analytical rigour and insight: Demonstrated ability to synthesise complex data and strategic insights; proven record of shaping high-level organisational strategies.
- Facilitation and communication: Strong skills in facilitating discussions, presenting insights to senior leadership, and translating complex data into accessible, strategic information.
- Project management and adaptability: Track record of managing complex research and evaluation projects with multiple stakeholders; able to balance strategic oversight with hands-on problem solving.
- Must have the legal right to work in the UK.
Desirable
- Familiarity with using Salesforce as a grant management system.
- Experience working or living in one or more of our priority countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Guatemala, Haiti, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Myanmar, Pakistan, Senegal, Sudan, Syria and Tanzania.
Please refer to the attached Terms of Reference for full details, including application process.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About Adolescent Health Study
The Adolescent Health Study (AHS) (Registered Charity Number 1213337) is an ambitious new UKRI-funded initiative to establish a prospective, longitudinal population study that will generate a globally leading open science data platform and research resource. AHS aims to recruit at least 100,000 young people from across the UK and to follow their mental and physical health and wellbeing over at least 10 years. It plans to collect data through questions and measures; to obtain bio-samples for a wide range of genomic and other high-throughput assays; and to capture linked data relevant to health and wellbeing from participants’ health, education and other administrative records. There will be a strong emphasis on engaging with and involving young people, schools, parents and other relevant stakeholders in the design and delivery of the study, as well as on including young people that represent as wide as possible a range of backgrounds, experiences and characteristics. AHS will focus on enabling a wide range of research, including studies of the critical biological and social developments that occur during the transition from childhood to adulthood and the determinants of both mental and physical health and wellbeing in adolescents and young adults.
Location: Remote working. Must be willing and able to travel to London, Edinburgh and elsewhere across the UK to support business need
Reporting to: AHS Chief Information and Technology Officer (to be appointed Spring 2026)
Hours of Work: FTE 37.5 hours per week
Purpose of the post
The Strategic Data Lead will play a critical role in managing the study’s data pipeline, devising and implementing strategies for the collection, management, storage, documentation and curation of complex participant data, and sharing data with research users. In particular, there will be a need for innovative, remote data collection methods that are acceptable to children and young people taking part in the study. The role holder will provide specialist advice, direction and input to the wider scientific team to maximise the potential of the study data and future proof the resource. They will drive forward innovative solutions which enable the long-term strategic vision for data management in the study.
Main responsibilities
Strategy
- Provide expert input into the design and delivery of the study before data collection begins, maximising data quality and efficient management from the start.
- Devise and implement a data management strategy, including appropriate data architecture, meta-data and data pipeline(s), to support the study’s aims and meet the needs of the research community.
- Consider the long-term strategy for data preservation and discoverability, to futureproof the resource and ensure maximal use.
Technology and innovation
- Identify and oversee the delivery of novel solutions for collection and management of complex health data, including transfer of data from specialist equipment and mobile technology, such as wearables or app-based data.
- Lead procurement activities, where required, to support the data management strategy, translating the needs of users into appropriate specifications and working with third parties to oversee delivery of solutions.
Risk management and compliance
- Oversee the development, management and continual improvement of all procedures used to process, manage and store data, ensuring that they are kept up to date and comply with relevant legislation and local guidelines.
Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement
- Build relationships with other longitudinal population studies (LPS) in order to seek advice where appropriate and ensure sharing of best practise within the LPS community.
- Work closely with researchers, data scientists and national bodies, such as Population Research UK and the UK Longitudinal Linkage Collaboration, to support study objectives.
- Consult and co-operate with colleagues and stakeholders, including children and young people, to support the use of the study’s data for collaborative research purposes, identifying opportunities to maximise the potential of the data.
- Offer creative solutions to issues that arise, consulting with and influencing stakeholders with differing expectations, ensuring the impact of any change is communicated and understood by those involved.
Essential criteria:
- Proven track record of managing large and complex data sets within an academic, research or similar environment, including different types of data from multiple sources, including those with complex ethical and governance requirements.
- Thorough understanding of legislation regarding data management, confidentiality and security.
- Understanding of research governance.
- Demonstrable experience in developing and implementing a data management strategy.
- Experience of implementing current and developing technologies used for collecting, storing and accessing research data.
- Excellent organisational skills with the proven ability to manage multiple competing projects simultaneously to achieve deadlines.
- Educated to degree level in Computer Science or related discipline or equivalent experience.
- Proven innovation and pro-active problem-solving skills.
- Proven ability to influence and negotiate with different levels of staff and external contacts.
- Excellent communication with both internal and external stakeholders including the ability to communicate technically complex ideas at an appropriate level.
Desirable criteria:
- Proven skills in programming using various languages and technologies including understanding of data manipulation and statistical packages used to manage, manipulate and analyse data e.g. SQL, Python, R.
- Proven ability to effectively lead, direct and manage a team of technical staff.
- Experience of working with a longitudinal research study, or equivalent, at a senior level.
- Excellent presentation skills, with experience of presenting to diverse audiences.
Working Environment
- Full time role with flexible working arrangements.
- AHS is a national organisation, and our activities take place across the UK.
- Flexible working will be required across several geographical locations in the UK. Travel may be required to AHS locations, fieldwork sites and partner organisations.
- As a small charity, we offer a range of benefits, including enhanced sickness and family-friendly pay, additional annual leave, the opportunity to purchase up to five extra days’ holiday each leave year, a 10% employer pension contribution, and one paid volunteering day per year.
Application Process
This post is subject to receipt of satisfactory references and the post holder having the right to work in the UK (visa sponsorship is not available). Please apply online with a CV and a covering letter (of no more than two pages) explaining what you can bring to this role, and including your current salary.
The closing date for this position is EoD Sunday 25 January 2026.
Interviews are currently expected to be held during the week commencing 23 February or 02 March 2026.
Equal Opportunities Policy Statement
AHS is an equal opportunities employer, and as such aims to treat all employees, consultants and applicants fairly. AHS is an equal opportunities employer, and as such aims to treat all employees, consultants and applicants fairly. It is our policy to provide employment equality to all, irrespective of age, disability, gender identity or expression, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.
Beyond these protected characteristics, we acknowledge the importance of socio-economic background, childcare and caring responsibilities, educational background, neurodiversity, and any other factors that shape an individual’s identity and opportunities. We strive to create an environment where all colleagues feel valued, supported, and able to contribute fully.
Values
It is an exciting time for the Adolescent Health Study (AHS) as we establish our senior leadership and delivery teams. As the senior executive team evolves, the AHS values will be grounded in inclusivity, integrity, accountability, and collaboration.